Chapter 2, Problem 85A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The zero which is significant in the given number $50,540$ needs to be identified. Also, the term used for the other zero needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

In order to determine the number of significant figures, the following rules should be applied,

1. The non-zero digits are always significant.

2. In a number, the zeros to the left of the first non-zero digit are not significant.

3. Zeros between non zero digits are significant

4. Zeros to the right of the decimal place are significant

5. If a number ends in zero that are not to the right of a decimal,  the zeros may or may not be significant.

To round off a number, look at the digit up to which number needs to be rounded off. If the digit right to it is less than 5 simply add 1 to the previous digit and remove all the digits after it from the number. If the digit right to the digit up to which rounding needs to be done is less than 5, just remove all the digits after it from the number.

Now, if the digit is equal to 5 then 1 is added to the previous digit if it is an odd number. If the previous digit is an even number, simply remove all the digits after it from the number.

Answer to Problem 85A

The zero between the non-zero digits in number is significant and the zero present at the end of the number is not significant. It is termed as placeholder.

Explanation of Solution

The zero between the non-zero digits in number is significant and the zero present at the end of the number is not significant. It is termed as placeholder.

However, if a decimal point is placed at the end of the given number then the last zero would become significant.

Conclusion

The zero between the non-zero digits in number is significant and the zero present at the end of the number is not significant. It is termed as placeholder.